Well-known chef and restaurateur Elizabeth Falkner this week announced her participation in the education campaign for atopic dermatitis, "Understand AD."
The national campaign teams Falkner with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Sanofi Genzyme, the National Eczema Association and Dermatology Nurses Association.
The chronic inflammatory skin disease causes severe rashes that may itch, scab, crack and ooze. Approximately 1.6 million adults suffer from the disease in the U.S.
"I have been living with the challenges of atopic dermatitis for more than 20 years," Falkner said. "At its worst, my atopic dermatitis causes constant, unbearable itching, scabbing, visible rashes on my body and even bleeding, and that's only the physical part. Having atopic dermatitis can affect many aspects of a person's life — physically and emotionally — and yet many people don't understand the severity and impact. I joined Understand AD to empower people to have more open conversations with their doctors and loved ones about the impact this disease has on their lives."
Falkner has stepped up as the face of Understand AD to help educate the public and support AD patients. By sharing her own experiences, she hopes to encourage other AD sufferers to seek help. The website, www.UnderstandAD.com, provides information and resources about the disease.
"Our community of nurses on the front lines see people every day who are suffering with atopic dermatitis," Dermatology Nurses Association President Donna Beyer said. "But there is still a gap in public awareness about this disease and a clear need for continued education and supportive resources for patients. We're excited to join Understand AD to help educate about the disease and to drive the dialogue that atopic dermatitis is more than skin deep."
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